Two Boys Arrested for Attempted Robbery

DES MOINES, Iowa  Police said two boys ages 11 and 12 were arrested and charged in connection with an attempted robbery case just blocks from school Friday.

Police spokesman Sgt. Steve Woody said they boys were charged with first-degree robbery. Their names were not disclosed due to their age.

The case was referred to juvenile authorities.

The incident forced Harding Middle School into lock down for several hours after a Des Moines man told police that three children tried to rob him as he swept his sidewalk.

The incident near 3508 Oxford St. was reported at 8:45 a.m. just two blocks from Harding Middle School.

The man told police that a boy dressed in school uniform walked up to him and said, "Show me the money."

The man said he didn't have money, but was told by the boy to open his wallet or he would shoot. The man had nothing in wallet and the boy ran off.

The man reported about six other middle school children were across the street at the time, watching the incident.

An employee at a nearby Firestone store said called police. The man wasn't hurt during the incident.

By 9:30 a.m., seven police cars were parked in front of Harding Middle School. Hours later officers remained at the school.Police said they found an Airsoft handgun near the school, but are unsure if it was the one used in the robbery attempt.

The lock down ended just before noon.

Police said they took one student to the police station for further questioning. At noon, detectives and officers were still in the school questioning other students.